Atoms in Living vs. Dead Cells: A Comparison

In summary, the difference in atoms between a living cell and a dead cell is in the organization of the molecules they form, rather than the atoms themselves. Living cells are self-sustaining and capable of evolution, while dead cells no longer possess these characteristics. This can be compared to the difference in atoms between a functioning computer, a turned off computer, and a smashed computer. Ultimately, the organization of atoms in a living cell is what distinguishes it from a dead cell.
  • #1
Anonymous 69
4
1
I want to know what is the difference in atoms when a cell is alive and after it is dead
 
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Welcome to the PF. :smile:
Anonymous 69 said:
I want to know what is the difference in atoms when a cell is alive and after it is dead
(Thread moved from the Quantum Physics forum to the Biology forum)

What do you think the differences might be?
 
  • #3
good question
 
  • #4
The difference is in the organization of the molecules which the atoms form, not in the atoms themselves.
The molecules themselves are not different, but they are part of larger structure (cells, unless you want to include viruses) that they are part of.

Although there is no commonly accepted definition of life, living things could be considered
self-sustaining, self replicating entities (when considered in the environment they are adapted to) that are capable of evolving by natural selection.
They use energy they obtain from their environment to maintain themselves and reproduce.

A technical comparison of this organization argument might be what is the difference between the atoms in a transistor in a functioning computer from those in:
a) a computer that is turned off
b) a computer that has been smashed to bits
c) a transistor that is just laying around on a lab bench

The atoms are part of larger entities that have properties based upon their higher level organization.
In all these cases, the atoms just do their atomistic things in the same way.

There are some older PF threads on definition of life and related subjects.
Some are listed here.
 
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1. What is the difference between atoms in living cells and dead cells?

The main difference between atoms in living cells and dead cells is the arrangement and organization of atoms. In living cells, atoms are constantly moving and interacting with each other to carry out various biological processes. In contrast, atoms in dead cells are no longer actively participating in these processes and may be more disorganized or static.

2. Are the types of atoms present in living and dead cells the same?

Yes, the types of atoms present in living and dead cells are the same. All living organisms are composed of the same basic elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. These elements are essential for building and maintaining the structures and functions of living cells.

3. How do the atoms in living cells contribute to their functions?

The atoms in living cells contribute to their functions in several ways. For example, atoms such as carbon and oxygen are used to build important biomolecules like carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Other atoms like sodium and potassium are crucial for maintaining the electrical balance within cells and aiding in nerve impulse transmission.

4. Can atoms in living cells die or decay like cells do?

No, atoms in living cells do not die or decay like cells do. Atoms are the smallest units of matter and cannot be destroyed or created. However, they can be rearranged or combined with other atoms to form new molecules. When a cell dies, the atoms within it may be recycled and used in other biological processes.

5. How do the atoms in dead cells differ from those in living cells in terms of energy?

The atoms in dead cells have significantly less energy compared to those in living cells. Living cells are constantly using energy to carry out metabolic processes, maintain homeostasis, and respond to their environment. When a cell dies, these processes cease and the energy stored in its atoms gradually dissipates over time.

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